What is a digital pedobarograph?
A digital pedobarograph is a modern imaging system that maps the anatomical morphology of the foot and the distribution of plantar pressures during standing and walking.

It consists of a pressure-sensing device, typically a mat embedded with thousands of pressure sensors. It also includes a computer for data storage, a screen for displaying analysis results, and specialized software – a crucial component since it presents visual information both to the examiner and the patient. The pedobarograph enables both static and dynamic measurements.

Static Assessment

  • It processes the distribution and projection of the body’s center of gravity on each leg separately, and records the average and maximum mechanical pressure on the lower limbs.

  • It registers the support surface of each limb and the percentage of body weight distribution in both frontal and sagittal planes.

  • It analyzes the patient’s balance while standing, either on both legs or one leg, and evaluates visual and vestibular influences.

Dynamic Assessment

  • It analyzes various phases of gait, pressure-loading graphs, peak pressure, and calculates the pressure in N/cm² exerted during walking on each square centimeter of the feet.

  • It measures contact time and the duration of plantar pressure application during weight-bearing.

  • Gait is recorded via motion video analysis, breaking it down into distinct phases.

Indications – Use of Pedobarography
It is important to emphasize that the data obtained from plantar pressure measurements can be used for assessment and treatment – including the fabrication of custom orthotic insoles – in patients with a wide range of foot disorders related to neurological or musculoskeletal conditions, affecting both children and adults.

In the context of sports injuries, biomechanical abnormalities can be detected, and issues such as limb-length discrepancies, overuse syndromes, tendinitis, metatarsalgia, and plantar fasciitis can be identified.

In pediatrics, the system helps identify many gait abnormalities, such as internal/external hip rotation, valgus flatfoot, foot pronation/supination, clubfoot, equinus foot, and neurological conditions.

In metabolic disorders such as diabetes mellitus, where peripheral angiopathy and neuropathy affect the feet, the recording of plantar pressures is of utmost importance in preventing ulcers and, consequently, amputations.